Holidays to Cape Town & The Western Cape
You really can do it all on a Cape Town holiday. From fascinating history to stunning scenery, fantastic dining and even a thriving sports scene, there is no shortage of things to do. And, if you venture out further into the Western Cape, you can explore the renowned Winelands, experience whale watching in one of the world’s best spots and go on an epic safari.
How to Get to Cape Town
There are many flights from airports all over the UK to Cape Town, with daily direct flights from London Heathrow getting you there in just 12 hours.
When you arrive, your Travel Consultant can either arrange a transfer into the city, or they can organise car hire. The journey only takes 30 minutes by road to transfer from the International Airport to the V&A Waterfront and Camps Bay is slightly further, taking 40 minutes. To get to Hermanus it is around a 1 hour 30 minute drive.
Things To Do in Cape Town
- Ascend Table Mountain by cable car for breath-taking city views
- Meet the resident penguins at Boulders Beach
- Experience the buzz of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
- Learn about the history of Apartheid on Robben Island
- Marvel at Cape Town from above with a Helicopter flight over the city
- Admire Cape Town’s culture and diversity on a city tour
- Take in the incredible scenery on a Cape Peninsular day tour
- Discover the Dutch-Georgian blend Bo-Kaap architecure in Signal Hill
- Enjoy a relaxing beach day at Camps Bay or Clifton
- Go and watch a rugby game or the South Africa v England cricket
Safaris Near Cape Town
The Western Cape is an incredibly varied region, boasting fantastic biodiversity, so it is a fantastic destination for a safari.
Aquila Game Reserve is the closest safari reserve to Cape Town, offering an accessible experience. They even offer half day safaris from Cape Town, or you can choose to stay within the reserve. All of the ‘Big 5’ wildlife can be spotted within Aquila, so it is a great option for a safari near Cape Town.
Slightly further afield is Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, similarly housing the ‘Big 5’. The reserve feels much more remote and luxurious, however, with boutique lodges and safari camps.
Western Cape Whale Watching
The coast along the Western Cape is known for its rich marine life, and it is renowned as being one of the best destinations in the world for whale watching.
In Hermanus, whales can be spotted from shore, as they migrate just off the coast. Alternatively, on a boat tour from Hermanus or Gansbaai you can enjoy some spectacular up-close sightings. At Grootbos Nature Reserve, you can even go on ‘Marine Big 5’ safaris to spot dolphins, whales, sharks, seals and penguins.
The Cape Winelands
Located around 50 miles from Cape Town, you’ll find this renowned wine region. The town of Stellenbosch is known as the ‘Capital of the Cape Winelands’, but throughout the region, including Paarl and Franschhoek, you’ll find historic vineyards, cellar doors and amazing restaurants, all set within stunning mountain scenery. You can go on a day tour from Cape Town or stay in a boutique hotel.
The Garden Route
This stunning road trip starts in Mossel Bay and ends at Storms River, travelling 200 km along the South African coast. Most people, however, begin their Garden Route trip in Cape Town, travelling to Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha). Along the way you can take in the Western Cape’s stunning coastline.
Best Time to Visit Cape Town and the Western Cape
There really is no bad time for a Cape Town holiday, so deciding when to go depends on what you’d like to do.
Summer (November to February) – The weather is hottest and driest at this time of year, ideal for beach days. This is the busiest time of year, so it’s best to book early.
Autumn (March to May) – The weather remains pleasant at this time of year, but it is less busy. It’s a great time of year for hiking or enjoying the Winelands.
Winter (June to August) – Winters in the Western Cape are mild, but you can expect some rain. It’s the best time of for whale watching, however, with migratory southern whales just off the coastline.
Spring (September to October) – You can still enjoy whale watching at this time of year, as well as witnessing stunning displays of wild flowers.
Plan your holiday
